By Wendi Rank

I have a confession to make. Even worse than disliking the shore.

I don’t like Disney World.

Go ahead. Hate me. I deserve it.

I asked my Disney-loving friends what they’d like to know about the July 11 phased reopening. They sent me texts for two hours. So I understand the excitement.

As a healthcare provider, I’m staying home. But if your happiest place on Earth has a bow tie- wearing mouse, do your homework.

Here are some tips to consider before you pack your Disney® pins, which I just learned is a thing:

Tip #1 Think It Through

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for guidance on traveling, hotels, and gatherings. We have a responsibility to high risk individuals and healthcare workers. Take it seriously before planning your fun.

Tip #2 Visit Before You Visit

Florida Health and Visit Florida post restrictions and updates. Some visitors are required to quarantine for 14 days. You may need to quarantine when you come home, too. Disney World’s website lists open attractions.

Tip #3 Not So Fast

This one is going to hurt, guys. Fast Passes have been suspended. But wait! Tip #4 should make it better.

Tip #4 Reservations…

Dining can now be booked 60 days ahead. Keep your mask on until you’re eating, and pop it back on as soon as you’re done. Use contact-free payment, and wash your hands before and after you dine.

You’ll also need to make reservations to enter the park. Currently just one park a day can be booked. These restrictions are intended to keep park attendance down. See? You don’t need that Fast Pass!

Tip #5 …Or Pack It Up

Disney World allows food to be brought in, so this is really your safest option. Use contact-free payment for any in-park purchases. Masks may be removed to eat. Stay at least ten feet from anyone else and eat outside. Don’t walk around while you’re munching.

Tip #6 Transportation

Shuttles and valet are currently suspended. Renting a car? Wipe down surfaces with a bleach cloth at pick up and drop off. Wash your hands well afterward. Tip-within-a-tip: do the same thing at your hotel.

Tip #7 Obey The Rules

Temperature screenings are required for park entry, and masks are mandatory. Ground indicators and physical barriers will keep everyone six feet apart.

Tip #8 Wash, Wash, Wash

There are new hand-washing stations throughout the park. Use them! Wash your hands before and after rides, and touch as little as possible. Don’t touch your face, and cover coughs and sneezes. Wash your hands when you leave, and change your clothes.

Tip #9 Be Incredible

The park has enlisted The Incredibles to emphasize their new rules. Get the kids in on the action! Watch the movies, and use this link to show them the rules.

Making your trip safer is a top priority. Know and apply the CDC guidelines. Let’s help Disney World – and Florida – continue to be the happiest place on Earth.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wendi Rank is a Montgomery County native with a graduate degree from LaSalle University. She has worked as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She has previously written for the journal Nursing.

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